Clough taking nothing for granted

13 January 2014

Following Saturday's defeat at Notts County, boss Nigel Clough has reiterated that preserving United's League One status this term remains his first target.

Speaking after goals from Enoch Showunmi and Mark Fotheringham condemned the Blades to defeat at Meadow Lane, the Gaffer said: "Our aim this season is to survive and if we can achieve that we would like to push up the table towards the top half, but first and foremost we have to stay up.

"We have seen enough and believe we have enough to avoid relegation, but defeats against your rivals hurt and emphasises that nothing can be taken for granted."

On the inclusion of Conor Coady from the off in Nottingham and the impact of loan recruit Billy Paynter, Clough continued: "Conor trained excellently throughout the week and given everything Jamie (Murphy) put in at Aston Villa, we thought Conor would make us more solid and give us some fresh legs.

"He did so and the way he took his goal was very pleasing, although in the end it ultimately counted for nothing.

"Billy (Paynter) came on and made a positive contribution. He is a physical presence who puts himself around and we need more of that in the weeks ahead, that's why we brought him here because he is different to what we already have."

On possible comings and goings, Clough concluded: "Florent Cuvelier could move out on loan this week, that's why he wasn't involved on Saturday, but the emphasis is on bringing two or three in to bolster the squad.

"We would hope to conclude some business before the game against Bradford City; we are pursuing targets, rather than waiting for players to move on."